One of the main goals in dentistry is to conserve the natural tooth structure by any means. If a tooth becomes damaged or shows signs of decay, we only want to remove the decay or defective parts of the tooth while maintaining the integrity of the rest of the tooth. Dr. Sheen offers dental inlays and onlays to restore the tooth, making it functional and strong again.
Dental inlays and onlays are conservative dental restorations made from high-quality porcelain and resin materials. They are two of the strongest, most durable treatment options available today for patients whose teeth have experienced excessive damage or wear.
Inlays and onlays last longer than conventional dental fillings and effectively strengthen both internal and external tooth structures – ensuring function and longevity while protecting against further damage and decay. They are stain resistant, realistic looking, and easy to care for and maintain.
Inlay and Onlay in Annapolis
The beginning part of the process of having either an inlay or onlay placed is similar to having a tooth filling done. Dr. Sheen will begin by removing the damaged or decayed portions of the tooth. When only the healthy tooth structure is remaining, he will take digital impressions of the tooth.
He will utilize advanced CEREC technology to prepare the restoration while you wait. In a single visit, our dentist in Annapolis, MD can design, fabricate, and permanently bond the restoration to the tooth.
What is an inlay?
Dr. Sheen will use a porcelain inlay to restore a tooth that has significant decay that is too large for a simple tooth filling. The inlay will be custom-made to fit right inside the tooth. It is a single solid piece that is made precisely to the size and shape of the missing portion of the tooth. Inlays are stronger than standard dental fillings and create a stronger surface for chewing.
What is an onlay?
An onlay covers more surface area of the tooth than an inlay, but not quite the whole tooth. Once it covers the whole tooth, it is commonly called a dental crown at that point. Onlays will typically cover or replace a cusp of a tooth. Similar to the inlay, the onlay is custom-made as a solid piece to replace the missing portion of the tooth.
Same Day Dental Restorations in Annapolis, MD
Annapolis dentist Dr. Vernon Sheen is one of the few dentists in Maryland to offer same-day porcelain dental restorations with advanced CEREC technology. Traditionally, a dental inlay or onlay requires two or more visits to the dentist to complete. With CEREC, Dr. Sheen can design, fabricate, and place the restoration in a single visit.
A post-procedural examination for all inlay and onlay patients ensures the new restoration does not interfere with their natural bite.
Dental Inlay & Onlay FAQs
How long does it take to get inlays and onlays?
Placement typically takes two visits to our Annapolis dentist office. During the first visit, we prepare your tooth and take detailed impressions. We may fit you with a temporary restoration while a dental lab fabricates the final one. When you return to our dentist office, Dr. Sheen will check the fit of the inlay or onlay and permanently secure the new restoration.
Can inlays and onlays be used instead of crowns?
Yes, but only in certain circumstances. Getting an inlay or onlay might be a more economical alternative to getting a dental crown, but you will be sacrificing the complete protection of a dental crown. As mentioned above, inlays and onlays only cover part of the tooth and do not provide the total protection a dental crown can provide.
Does getting an inlay or onlay hurt?
No. Getting an inlay or onlay placed on your teeth does not cause any pain. it actually alleviates your tooth pain from the cavity that your dentist cleans out. The procedure is similar to getting a dental crown or filling.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Inlays and onlays are a great alternative to full-coverage crowns for patients who want to increase their teeth’s natural strength and durability while restoring a natural look to their smile. With proper care, inlays and onlays can improve your oral health and rebuild confidence in your smile. We also provide many dental services in Annapolis, Maryland, today. For additional information, contact our Annapolis dental office at (443) 482-5202 or request a consultation online.